Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2026 - POL 100 D100

Introduction to Politics and Government (3)

Class Number: 6195

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 9 – Dec 7, 2026: Fri, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

A comprehensive introduction to the study of politics and government for both political science majors and students specializing in other disciplines. The course will explore the major concepts, methods, approaches and issues in political science, as well as the primary components of government structure and the political process. Students with credit for POL 101W may not take this course for further credit. Breadth-Social Sciences.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course introduces students to the fundamental ideologies, norms, and institutions that support liberal democracy. Specific topics include nations and nationalism, classic and ‘new’ ideologies, electoral systems, political executives, federalism, political parties, and voting behaviour. The course explores these topics through a comparative lens with a focus on Canada.

Most weeks include a 2-hour lecture and a 1-hour tutorial. The syllabus will include the full schedule.

Grading

  • Tutorial Participation 10%
  • Tutorial Presentation 10%
  • Lecture Quizzes 5%
  • In-Class Mid-Term 35%
  • Cumulative Final Exam 40%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Heywood, Andrew, and Matthew Laing. Politics. Available from: VitalSource Bookshelf, (6th Edition). Bloomsbury UK, 2024.

Department Undergraduate Notes:

The Department of Political Science strictly enforces a policy on plagiarism.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.